By Moody Marty | Opening Doorz Editorial | March 24, 2025
No one hands you a guidebook when you step into the competitive world of entertainment. Talent alone isn’t enough—there are hurdles, detractors, and people who would rather pull you down than lift you.
The Struggles of Making It Big
We’ve all faced that moment of frustration, where self-doubt creeps in, making us question our choices. Did we pick the right path? Did we follow our hearts wisely? Passion drives people into the arts, but staying in it, thriving, and making a name for oneself requires more than just love for the craft.
Then comes the reality of working in the entertainment industry. Event organizers exploit young artists, paying them peanuts while profiting immensely. They keep performers hanging with the promise of ‘more shows,’ knowing full well that desperation makes many accept unfair terms.
But not everyone bends to this system. Some, through sheer determination and self-respect, carve their own space. And some, having fought their battles, extend a helping hand to the next generation. One such inspiring figure is Manasi Scott.
Manasi Scott: A Voice Like No Other
A powerhouse of talent, Manasi Scott has faced her share of struggles in the industry but has emerged stronger, holding her ground on her terms. Today, she stands tall as a celebrated artist, recognized not just for her soulful voice but for her integrity and generosity.
To me, she is India’s answer to Barbara Streisand and Whitney Houston, with a touch of Gloria Gaynor. Her compositions may not always dominate the charts, but they carry depth, rhythm, and soul. Nach Le (2005) is a prime example—a song that exudes confidence and energy, reminiscent of the iconic Nazia Hassan. It’s the kind of track that makes you want to hit the dance floor every time it plays.
Manasi’s success is her own, built on hard work, a never-give-up attitude, and immense talent. But what sets her apart is her willingness to acknowledge those who supported her and her commitment to giving back.
The Manasi Scott Experience: Opening Doors, Giving it Back
On Friday, March 21, 2025, at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre, Manasi Scott debuted The Manasi Scott Experience, an initiative that embodies her belief in nurturing young talent. The event wasn’t just about her music—it was about Opening Doors for the next generation of singers, giving them the confidence and exposure they need to take their first steps into the industry.
Apart from delivering her electrifying performances, she shared the stage with six young, talented singers, offering them an unparalleled platform to showcase their abilities in front of an appreciative audience with a ‘live’ band… on a world-class stage!
“This is how I give back where the music industry fails another generation,” she tells me.
Young Stars Take the Stage
For these six rising stars, the evening was nothing short of magical.
Kanisha Kakkad (12), the youngest performer of the night, stunned the audience with her rendition of If I Ain’t Got You by Alicia Keys. Aadya Rao brought the house down with Florida by Taylor Swift. Noa Eappen impressed with Birds of a Feather by Billie Eilish, while Prisha Aneja, Bhrigu Parashar, and Kareena Dholakia rocked the stage with Die With a Smile by Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars, along with Aaj Se.
As they sang, their parents watched proudly from the audience, while Manasi stood beside them, her encouraging presence a reminder that they belonged on that stage. It was a lesson in generosity—on how to give back without expecting anything.
The Magic of ‘Live’ Music
‘Live’ music elevates performance and the musicians that night provided the perfect backdrop for these young singers. The energy in the room was tangible, with every note and beat coming together to create a truly memorable experience.
The youngest musician of the night, Enrico Rodrigues, shone on the saxophone with multiple solos. With a little more soul in his play, he will be a force to reckon with in the future.
The ensemble was completed by a stellar lineup of artists: Karan Ghosh (Guitar), Russel Fernandes (Bass), Joel Crasto and George Joseph (Keyboards), Agnello Picadry (Drums), Razzak Shaikh (Percussion), Lisa Rodrigues, and Danielle D’Silva (Backing Vocals).
A special moment came with Shannon Pereira on the guitar, as a guest artist. As he left the stage, stunning all with his Slash-like persona and playing style, I turned to my younger daughter (who is pleading with me to take her to the Guns N’ Roses concert in May) and said, “Now you’ve seen half of Guns N’ Roses.”
A Tribute to Giving Back
As the night drew to a close, it was evident that The Manasi Scott Experience was more than just a concert—it was a hope for aspiring artists. It was a reminder that in an industry known for its cutthroat competition, there are still those who believe in uplifting others.
For the young singers who took the stage that night, this event will remain a cherished memory, a defining moment in their journey; a moment they will refer to as the turning point of their lives.
There’s a line from Luke 6:38 that perfectly captures the spirit of the night: “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”
Take a bow, Manasi Scott. May your tribe increase.
[Moody Marty: Sometimes funny, sometimes informative, always downright forthright!]
Also Read: ‘Let it Go’, by Manasi Scott and Sidd Coutto is Sunshine in the Rain!
Also Read: Turning ₹150 Into a Thriving Business: The Manasi Kamtekar Story!